A Guide to ISO 19650 for Construction Professionals

ISO 19650 is an international standard for managing building information models (BIM), digital drawings, and other construction data. It offers guidelines for organising and digitising information throughout the lifecycle of construction projects. By following these guidelines, project teams can streamline communication and collaboration, all whilst boosting efficiency and accuracy across all project phases.

From PAS 1192-2 to ISO 19650

Introduced in 2013, PAS 1192-2 was initially a UK-specific standard focusing on managing information during the delivery phase of BIM projects. As the construction industry became more global, the need for a universally accepted framework grew. In 2019, PAS 1192-2 transitioned into ISO 19650, standardising practices internationally and bringing consistency across different countries and teams.

The Six ISO 19650 Components

ISO 19650-1: Concepts and Principles

ISO 19650-1 outlines the concepts and principles for strategic information management. It targets decision makers involved in the procurement, use, and management of built asset information. By establishing a strategic framework, it makes sure that all information supports the overall organisational goals, creating a cohesive approach to information management.

ISO 19650-2: Delivery Phase of the Assets

ISO 19650-2 focuses on the delivery phase of a building and the necessary management processes. This section is essential for design teams, and construction companies who are responsible for implementing effective information management throughout a project. It provides a roadmap for handling information, coordinating models, and ensuring quality control - linking strategic goals to operational actions.

ISO 19650-3: Operational Phase of the Assets

ISO 19650-3 addresses the management of information during the operational phase of an asset. This part is crucial for facility managers, owners, and operators as it provides guidelines for managing and maintaining asset information post-construction. It ensures that accurate, up-to-date information is available throughout the asset's operational lifecycle, supporting effective maintenance, repairs, and renovations.

ISO 19650-4: Information Exchange

ISO 19650-4 focuses on the processes and requirements for information exchange across project stages. It sets standards for data formats, exchange protocols, and information delivery, providing clear routes of communication between all stakeholders. This is key for interoperability between different software systems and platforms, which is crucial for collaborative project environments.

ISO 19650-5: Security-minded Approach to Information Management

ISO 19650-5 introduces a security-minded approach to information management. This part emphasises the importance of protecting sensitive information from unauthorised access, cyber threats, and data breaches. It provides guidelines for implementing security measures, ensuring that all information exchanged and stored during the project's lifecycle is safe. This key for safeguarding intellectual property and maintaining client trust.

ISO 19650-6: Health and Safety Information

ISO 19650-6 - which is still under development - deals with the integration of health and safety management principles within the information management framework. This part provides guidelines for incorporating health and safety data into BIM models and other project information. This means that safety considerations are integrated into all phases of the project, from design through to construction and operation, reducing risks and promoting a safer working environment.

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Benefits of ISO 19650 in Construction

Global Standards for Local Projects

ISO 19650 bridges local practices with global standards, levelling the approach to managing construction projects across different cultures and regions. This allows for collaboration between international and local teams whilst enabling local projects to align with global best practices - making them competitive on the international stage.

Enhanced Communication and Collaboration

One of the key benefits of ISO 19650 is the improvement in communication and collaboration among stakeholders. Clear guidelines on data management guarantee that architects, engineers, contractors, and clients are aligned. Improved communication prevents misunderstandings and promotes a cooperative working environment.

Increased Efficiency and Cost Savings

Standardising information management processes under ISO 19650 reduces redundancies and errors. By streamlining workflows, construction projects can be executed more efficiently, leading to cost savings. This efficiency is particularly beneficial in complex projects where many stakeholders and high volumes of data are involved.

Improved Quality and Consistency

Consistent information handling under ISO 19650 means that data is accurate and reliable. This leads to higher quality outcomes and uniformity across projects, reducing the likelihood of rework. Reliable data supports better decision-making, making the project better overall. 

One of the key compliance aspects of ISO 19650 is file-level access, meaning that access to documents is granted based on metadata. This makes certain that end users have access to relevant and approved information. 

Compliance and Competitiveness

Observing international standards assures clients and partners of a commitment to best practices in information management, positioning any complying business as a reliable and forward-thinking organisation.

Stakeholders and Compliance

Identifying Key Stakeholders

Compliance with ISO 19650 involves various stakeholders, each playing a crucial role in the information management process. These stakeholders include:

• Architects and designers: responsible for creating and managing digital models and documents.
• BIM managers: oversee the application of BIM processes during construction.
• Project Managers: coordinate between different stakeholders and facilitate compliance.
• Owners and developers: require managed information for asset maintenance and operation.
• Contractors and subcontractors: use managed information for construction planning and execution and support the creation of construction drawings in Design-Build projects.

Roles and Responsibilities

Each stakeholder has specific roles and responsibilities that lead to smooth information management:

• Architects and designers: make sure that all designs and related documents are created and stored according to ISO 19650 standards.
• BIM managers and contractors: implement BIM processes and help all workers adhere to the standards during construction.
• Information Managers: oversee compliance and confirm that documentation is up to date and accessible.
• Owners and developers: specify requirements based on standards and verify compliance to facilitate future asset management.

Steps to Compliance

Getting Started with ISO 19650

Achieving compliance with ISO 19650 involves a structured approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

1. Educate your team: confirm that key project members understand the ISO 19650 standards through training sessions or workshops.
2. Assess current practices: evaluate your current information management practices and identify areas that need adjustment.
3. Develop an Implementation Plan: create a detailed plan that outlines how your organisation will adapt its processes to comply with ISO 19650.
4. Update tools and systems: make sure that the software tools and systems used for information management are capable of complying with the standards.
5. Implement procedures: roll out the new or revised procedures according to your plan. This includes training all participants.
6. Monitor and adjust: regularly review your practices against the ISO 19650 standards and make necessary adjustments.
7. Document compliance: maintain records of compliance efforts and results for internal audits and external validations.

Tools and Resources

Essential Tools for ISO 19650

The right tools and resources are vital for achieving and maintaining compliance with ISO 19650:

• BIM software: programs that support Building Information Modeling processes, such as Autodesk Revit, facilitate compliance.
• Training programs: regular training helps everyone to understand their role in maintaining compliance.
• Consultants and experts: experts in ISO 19650 can provide valuable insights and help troubleshoot specific issues.
• Compliance checklists and templates: standardised checklists and templates help verify that nothing is overlooked. Documentation of BIM Processes support compliance related to achieving ISO19650 accreditation.
• Online platforms and forums: engaging with online communities focused on ISO 19650 provides support, insights, and updates.

Using Technology

Emerging technologies play a significant role in enhancing compliance:

• Cloud computing: enables real-time data sharing and collaboration, ensuring data consistency and availability.
• Artificial intelligence: predicts project risks, automates routine tasks, and certifies standards are followed throughout the project lifecycle.
• Blockchain: provides secure and transparent data storage and sharing, increasing trust in data.

Certification in ISO 19650

Training and Certification Resources

To achieve ISO 19650 certification, training and certification resources are essential:

• Official training courses: look for accredited training providers like the British Standards Institution (BSI) or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
• Online learning platforms: websites such as Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or Udemy offer flexible courses on ISO 19650.
• Workshops and Seminars: Provide hands-on learning and networking opportunities from experts in the field.

Achieving Certification

• Assess Current Compliance Level

  Conduct an internal review or external audit to understand where your organisation stands

• Identify Training Needs

  Determine gaps and select appropriate training programs.

• Select a Certification Body

  Choose a reputable and accredited certification body.

• Undergo Formal Assessment

  Audit processes and systems for compliance.

• Maintain Certification

  Ensure ongoing compliance and regular re-assessment to adhere to standards

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